Is landlord responsible for closet mold from AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, your landlord is almost certainly legally responsible for the mold remediation in this situation. Under UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are obligated to maintain the property and carry out all major repairs, especially those related to the core structure and essential services like the air conditioning system. Since you reported the AC leak months ago and the fix was inadequate, the responsibility for the resulting mold damage falls on them.

The persistent leak created the moisture source, and Dubai’s high humidity provides the perfect environment for mold to thrive. A "huge patch" of black mold indicates a significant moisture issue that requires professional assessment. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination.

Document everything immediately: take clear, dated photos and videos of the mold and the leak. Send a formal written communication to your landlord or property management company, referencing your previous reports and attaching the new evidence. Clearly state that the mold is a direct result of the unrepaired AC leak.

For a case of this size, professional mold inspection and remediation are necessary to ensure it is safely removed and the underlying moisture problem is permanently fixed. The process involves containment, removal of affected porous materials (like drywall), HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. A reputable company can provide a detailed report documenting the cause and extent of the infestation, which is crucial evidence if you need to escalate the matter with the Dubai Land Department.